Supporting Entrepreneurs and Start-up Businesses in Leicestershire

Jay Ludditt takes on Advisor and Mentor role to support Midlands' start-ups, in collaboration with VentureVersity and Leicester Startups.

Mentoring plays a critical role in self development, for both the mentee and mentor. My first experience of having a mentor of my own goes back to writing my first business plan, and during the first few years of operating a real, functioning business. It felt like a box-ticking exercise at first, and only later did I appreciate just how worthwhile the process had been, and how appreciative I was of the time that had been invested in me. It wasn't long before I was given the opportunity to return the favour, by mentoring young entrepreneurs through Nottingham Trent University's Enterprise facility (The Hive as it was known) and what a fulfilling experience that was; helping others to navigate challenges and explore themselves, as well as their business ideas. I was, of course, still learning these things myself.

Fast forward to 2024, I'm very pleased to share news of my latest Advisor and Mentor role, in partnership with VentureVarsity and Leicester Startups. VentureVersity is a new funded collaboration between Loughborough University, University of Leicester and De Montfort University, bringing the local entrepreneurial community together to help turn academic ideas into commercial reality. I'm a huge fan of supporting others where I can. In my experience, sometimes the smallest gesture of listening, offering feedback and being a sounding board can make all the difference and help steer the ship back on course. With more formal mentoring, there's further opportunity to track progress, set goals and encourage more critical reflection throughout the journey.

I'm looking forward to meeting some talented individuals as part of this programme, and wish everyone taking part the very best for their ventures. Find out more about VentureVersity, or get in touch with me here if you'd like to discuss hiring me as your own mentor or advisor.